Tamron 70- vs YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens 1:2 AF/MF Wide-Angle
Updated July 2026 — full head-to-head comparison.
Price Comparison
The Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD is priced at $399.00, while the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 Lens is significantly cheaper at $106.00. This makes the YONGNUO about 73% less expensive than the Tamron lens. For budget-conscious photographers, this price difference could be a decisive factor. However, the higher price of the Tamron lens reflects its advanced capabilities, including a versatile zoom range and enhanced image quality, which may justify the investment for serious photographers.
Lens Type and Versatility
The Tamron 70-300mm is a telephoto zoom lens, offering a focal range of 70-300mm, making it suitable for a variety of photography styles, including landscapes, sports, and wildlife. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN35mm is a fixed prime lens with a focal length of 35mm, which is ideal for wide-angle shots, portraits, and low-light conditions due to its fast F/2 aperture. The versatility of the Tamron lens allows for greater creative freedom in different shooting scenarios, while the YONGNUO lens excels in specific applications requiring a wide-angle perspective.
Build Quality and Design
Both lenses are designed with portability in mind, but they cater to different needs. The Tamron lens is lightweight, weighing just 19.2 oz, and features a moisture-resistant construction, which is essential for outdoor shooting. Its compact size enhances its portability for photographers on the move. On the other hand, the YONGNUO lens, while heavier at 73mm in diameter and 59mm in length, boasts a robust design with a chrome metal bayonet that improves durability and fit to Canon EF mount cameras. Each lens's build quality aligns with its intended use—Tamron for dynamic shooting and YONGNUO for stable, close-up photography.
Autofocus Capabilities
The autofocus technology in both lenses caters to different photographic needs. The Tamron 70-300mm utilizes the RXD (Rapid eXtra-silent stepping Drive) unit, ensuring a quiet and precise autofocus experience, which is particularly beneficial for shooting wildlife or events without disturbing the subject. Conversely, the YONGNUO YN35mm supports both auto focus (AF) and manual focus (MF) modes, providing flexibility for photographers who prefer more control over their focus settings. While both lenses facilitate effective focusing, the Tamron's advanced AF system may give it an edge in fast-paced environments.
Image Quality
When it comes to image quality, the Tamron 70-300mm lens aims for uncompromising performance with its 15 elements in 10 groups designed to reduce aberrations and enhance clarity. This makes it a strong contender for high-resolution images with stunning bokeh effects, ideal for portrait and action shots. In contrast, the YONGNUO YN35mm’s design includes 5 sets of 7 elements, which is adequate for producing good optical performance, but it may not match the Tamron’s ability to capture fine details and color accuracy, especially in complex lighting scenarios.
Minimum Focusing Distance
The minimum focusing distance is another critical aspect to consider. The Tamron 70-300mm offers an impressive close-up shooting capability of 31.5 inches at its wide end and 59.1 inches at its telephoto end. This feature enhances its versatility in capturing detailed shots of subjects at varying distances. The YONGNUO YN35mm, however, has a much shorter minimum focusing distance of just 0.25m (about 0.8ft), allowing for intimate close-ups with a natural wide-angle effect. This makes it particularly appealing for portrait photography, where closeness to the subject can enhance the emotional impact of the image.
Compatibility and Use Cases
The Tamron lens is designed for Sony full-frame E-mount mirrorless cameras, making it ideal for photographers invested in that ecosystem. Its versatility allows for a wide array of photography styles, from sports to casual snapshots. On the other hand, the YONGNUO YN35mm is tailored for Canon EF mount cameras, supporting full-frame and APS-C formats. It’s particularly suitable for those who want a reliable lens for low-light conditions and wide-angle shots. The choice between these two lenses will largely depend on the camera system a photographer uses and their specific shooting needs.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 and the YONGNUO YN35mm F2 ultimately depends on your photographic needs and budget. If you require a versatile telephoto lens that excels in various situations and are willing to invest in quality, the Tamron is worth its price. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option that delivers solid performance for wide-angle photography and low-light conditions, the YONGNUO lens is an excellent choice. Each lens serves its purpose well, making the decision a matter of personal preference and specific use cases.